The recent report from the Federal Commission for Protection Against Sanitary Risks (COFEPRIS) revealed that Tijuana’s beaches are the most polluted in the entire country.
COFEPRIS’ analysis reveals that, nationwide, 98% of Mexican beaches meet recreational safety standards. However, the coasts of Rosarito and Tijuana have not been as fortunate, showing contamination levels exceeding 200 MPN of fecal enterococci per 100 milliliters of water. Based on World Health Organization criteria, this result indicates these beaches are unsafe for public health.
Ongoing monitoring by environmentalists from the Environmental Education Border Project (PFEA) has corroborated this situation. Their weekly water quality analysis of Tijuana’s beaches aims to inform visitors so they can take precautions.
PFEA’s results show that El Vigía has 40 enterococci per 100 ml of water—a type of bacteria that, while considered safe at this concentration, can still cause stomach or skin infections. However, this civil agency has warned that the beaches of El Faro, Parque México, Cañada Azteca, and Playa Blanca far exceed contamination limits.
This scientific data aligns with preventive measures implemented by the 25th City Hall of Tijuana, which has posted signs announcing the temporary closure of unsafe beaches.
Keep reading: Tijuana Beaches Unsafe for Recreational Use, Warns Mayor Ismael Burgueño
How Do Fecal Enterococci Affect Health?
The presence of these bacteria in the environment is often an indicator of fecal contamination, posing a public health risk. Exposure to these microorganisms can trigger several infections, especially in people with weakened immune systems. If ingested through water, these bacteria can cause gastrointestinal illnesses such as diarrhea, abdominal pain, and nausea.
Among the most common health issues are also urinary tract infections and surgical wound infections, though in more severe cases, they can lead to endocarditis. Notably, some strains of enterococci have developed antibiotic resistance, complicating treatment.
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